03/25/2026
AS DUMB AS PULLING A DOG BY THE EARS
This practical proverb may be just the wisdom you need today. “Whoever meddles in a quarrel not his own is like one who takes a passing dog by the ears.” Proverbs 26:17 paints a humorous word picture to remind the reader to mind their own business. Unless there is a compelling reason, it's usually unwise to get involved in someone else's dispute. If you do, chances are you will get bitten by both parties.
In ancient Israel, dogs were untamed scavengers and were often aggressive. They were not pets. Don’t be thinking Lassie, Benji, Beethoven or Scooby-Doo. No sensible person would grab a wild dog by the ears. If you pull a dog by the ears, you probably will get bit.
In the same way, a wise person is cautious not to intrude or meddle into conflicts, quarrels, strife and disputes that don’t involve them.
Bottom line: Don’t stick your nose where it doesn’t belong. That includes comments on social media! Whoops … I know I’m meddling now and not preaching.
